Asbestos was once a common material in building construction, but it’s now known to pose serious health risks when disturbed. At EHC Industries, we specialize in asbestos abatement and removal across Chicago, helping property owners protect their buildings and the people inside them. But how do you know when it’s time to remove asbestos?
In this blog, we’ll explore when asbestos should be removed and why it’s important to address it safely and professionally.
Understanding the Risks of Asbestos
Asbestos becomes dangerous when its fibers are disturbed and released into the air, where they can be inhaled. Once inhaled, these microscopic fibers can lodge in the lungs and other organs, leading to severe health issues, including:
- Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.
- Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure is a known cause of lung cancer, particularly in those exposed over long periods.
- Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition caused by the scarring of lung tissue due to asbestos fibers.
- Pleural Disease: Non-cancerous diseases affecting the lining of the chest cavity, which can lead to breathing issues.
Due to these significant health risks, understanding when asbestos removal is necessary is critical for maintaining a safe environment.
When Should Asbestos Be Removed?
- During Renovation or Demolition Projects
One of the most common situations requiring asbestos removal is during renovation or demolition. If your building was constructed before the 1980s and you plan to make significant changes, it’s important to have the property inspected for asbestos before starting work.
Renovation projects can disturb asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), such as insulation, flooring, or ceiling tiles, causing the dangerous fibers to become airborne. To avoid contamination and health risks, asbestos must be professionally removed before work begins.
- If Asbestos Materials Are Damaged
Asbestos-containing materials in good condition may not pose an immediate risk. However, if these materials become friable—meaning they can easily crumble or release fibers into the air—they should be removed as soon as possible.
Common signs of damaged asbestos materials include:
- Cracked or crumbling insulation
- Broken floor tiles or ceiling tiles
- Worn or deteriorating roofing shingles or siding
- Visible dust or debris from materials that may contain asbestos
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to contact a professional asbestos removal service, like EHC Industries, to safely assess and remove the material.
- If There’s a Risk of Disturbance
Even if asbestos-containing materials are in good condition, they can become hazardous if disturbed. For example, during routine maintenance, moving large equipment, or if a building sustains damage (such as during a storm), asbestos materials might be inadvertently disturbed. In such cases, preemptive asbestos removal may be the safest option.
- When Selling or Buying Property
If you’re planning to sell or buy a property, especially an older one, it’s essential to know if asbestos is present. Some property transactions may even require asbestos inspections to meet legal or lender requirements.
Even if it’s not legally required, many buyers prefer to have asbestos removed before finalizing a sale to avoid future liability or health risks. For sellers, preemptive asbestos removal can help smooth the sale process and protect future occupants.
- To Ensure Regulatory Compliance
In some cases, asbestos removal is required to comply with local, state, or federal regulations. For instance, if a building is being demolished or undergoing significant renovations, you may be legally required to have the property inspected for asbestos and remove any hazardous materials found.
Non-compliance with asbestos regulations can result in hefty fines, legal liability, and health risks for workers and residents. At EHC Industries, we’re well-versed in Chicago’s asbestos regulations and ensure all of our projects meet these standards.
When Is It Safe to Leave Asbestos in Place?
There are times when asbestos-containing materials do not need to be removed immediately. If the asbestos is in good condition, undisturbed, and not at risk of becoming friable, encapsulation or sealing may be an option. This process involves coating the asbestos-containing material with a protective sealant to prevent fibers from becoming airborne.
However, leaving asbestos in place is only a temporary solution, and it’s important to monitor the condition of the materials regularly. Even with encapsulation, future renovations or damage could still disturb the asbestos, making removal necessary at a later time.
Why Asbestos Removal Should Be Handled by Professionals
Asbestos removal is not a DIY project. Attempting to remove asbestos without proper training and equipment can release fibers into the air, increasing the risk of exposure. It’s important to hire licensed asbestos abatement professionals, like those at EHC Industries, who follow strict safety protocols and ensure the safe removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials.
Our team uses specialized equipment, including HEPA filters and air monitoring systems, to safely contain and remove asbestos. We also handle the legal requirements for proper disposal at designated hazardous waste facilities.
The Asbestos Removal Process at EHC Industries
When you hire EHC Industries for asbestos removal, here’s what you can expect:
- Inspection and Testing: We start by conducting a thorough inspection of your building, including testing any suspected asbestos-containing materials. This helps us determine the extent of the asbestos and the best course of action for removal.
- Containment: Before removing asbestos, we seal off the affected areas to prevent fibers from spreading. This may involve using plastic sheeting, negative air pressure systems, and other safety measures.
- Safe Removal: Our certified team carefully removes asbestos materials using specialized tools and techniques, ensuring minimal disruption to your property and maximum safety for everyone involved.
- Disposal and Cleanup: After removal, we safely dispose of the asbestos-containing materials in accordance with all regulations. We also thoroughly clean and test the area to ensure no asbestos fibers remain.
Conclusion
Asbestos removal is crucial in certain situations, especially during renovations, if materials are damaged, or when regulatory compliance is required. At EHC Industries, we specialize in asbestos abatement and ensure that your property is safe and asbestos-free.
If you suspect asbestos in your building or are planning a renovation, don’t wait until it becomes a health hazard. Contact EHC Industries today to schedule an inspection and learn more about our professional asbestos removal services in Chicago.